Letter-writing rules

Following a story in issue 302 about thank-you notes and a Meeting Place letter about the joy of putting pen to paper, many of you sent us your thoughts…

Times change

■ Nowadays, sadly, it does seem that many people do not send thank-you notes, or even acknowledge gifts received. Apart from the pleasant surprise of a letter through the post, it’s always good to know your gift reached its destination and was appreciated. However, I know that times do change and I would rather receive a thank-you email than no acknowledgement at all. Not to acknowledge a gift at all is very bad manners.

Wendy Chappell,

Havant

RSVP!

■ With reference to Trish Bell’s letter about the joys of letter writing, my seven-yearold granddaughter Maisie was given some pretty notepaper and loves writing letters. They are always set out correctly and are full of all her news. The only problem is, I normally receive three every two weeks all ending with the words, ‘please reply’, which of course I always do. It’s great fun for both of us. Long may it continue.

Val Finch, Luton

Writing means more

■ Although it is quick and convenient to text or email, taking time to actually write a note is more meaningful when thanking someone. And despite claims that handwriting is obsolete it is still required during exams and when applying for some jobs – writing thankyou notes is good practice.

Mrs C Fletcher, Basildon

Writing brings us closer

■ Eighteen months ago my granddaughter, who is at university, said she’d love to receive a letter instead of reading everything on screen. I promised to write to her and we are still having a lovely ongoing conversation by letter. It’s a lovely friendship! Kath Brailsford, Sheffield

The best gift

■ A thank-you note is one of the best things you can be given. It shows that the sender has taken the time to consider the recipient by putting pen to paper, buying a stamp, and taking time to post it. Long live the thank-you letter!

Ms J Yeomans, Warwickshire

Choosing the card

■ I think writing and receiving a thankyou card or letter is so special. I don’t own a computer, so everything I do is by hand. Choosing the card or the stationery is part of the enjoyment. Ann Hobbs, Saltash

It shows good manners

■ I always send either a card or written letter to say thank you out of politeness. I think people appreciate the fact that someone has taken the trouble to respond in this way. Good manners cost nothing.

Margaret Williams, Stafford

A keepsake to treasure

■ A phone call is easily forgotten, but opening an envelope with a lovely message inside is very gratifying. And a written message can be kept as a keepsake which in later years will be a fond reminder of the sender. Shirley Green, Herts

A thank-you would be nice

■ The article about thank-you notes made me smile. I’ve been sending birthday and Christmas cards, presents and money to my friend’s two grandchildren since they were born and they are now grown up. A direct thank you in any way, shape or form would have been wonderful!

Olga Woolley, Staffs

Texts aren’t always suitable

■ A handwritten thank-you note far exceeds a thank-you on social media. First of all, an appropriate card or notelet has to be bought and written in, and lastly a postage stamp bought – all well worth the trouble. Texts are not always suitable and I, for one, would not be able to receive one!

Ann Knight, Wilts